[flicker]

Recently, while looking for information on an obscure boat I was interested in, I ran across its PHRF rating. Are PHRF ratings born out of live tests of specific boats and rigs, or are they, more likely, a theoretical handicapping system using dimensional specs?

And, is it possible to use the PHRF rating to make a general, ballpark comparison of seahandling and comfort as well as speed?

Finally, exactly how, or by what equation, are PHRFs determined and why?

Thanks in advance,
Chas